Our global community is experiencing the throws of crises on top of crises: a pandemic, systemic racism, movement of refugee populations, natural disasters, political oppression, and others. Too often crises seem far away, distant, or difficult to grasp. 2020 has provided a dose of realism that while crises can strike anywhere around the world, they can also unfold on our front doorstep.

Crises can disrupt our physical world, but also our emotional and spiritual worlds. They bring us opportunities for lament, anger, engagement, change, listening, and learning. The Bible reminds us there is a season for everything, even the uncomfortable things. It is important to embrace and not rush these seasons, lest we carry on in ignorance. That we can fully experience each season with a humble heart focused on wisdom. That on the other side, love will flourish and be sincere, intelligent, and responsible (Philippians 1:9-11).

The pandemic crisis of COVID-19 hit Tijuana hard. In the month of April, hundreds of families all across the city were slated to receive houses by volunteer groups, 22 of those families by way of Doxa. Likewise, Hogar de los Niños and Unidos por Siempre orphanages were expecting hundreds of volunteers to pour through their doors. Of course, neither of these things happened and the future outlook continued to deteriorate. The families, orphanages, and volunteer groups have experienced all degrees of emotions, that their plans and lives were severely impacted.

Thankfully, various churches and individuals took time to understand the situation, empathize across borders, and then act. Choosing to boldly pray and donate, taking an active role in expressing love and reconciling the little they could within the larger COVID-19 crisis. These efforts have resulted in exceeding Doxa’s Spring 2020 Goals! Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to understand this crisis and respond. $164,705 has been raised, which includes funding 22 houses (4 have already been built!), $8k+ for Hogar de los Niños, and $15k+ for Unidos por Siempre! Many prayers, notes, and care packages have also been sent to people all over Tijuana. A reminder to all those we serve that they are not forgotten, even when we can’t see them in person.

Transitioning to Summer and Fall 2020, Doxa’s goals are 20 houses, 50 education scholarships, and to adapt our summer camp experience. We look forward to communicating more about these upcoming goals in the weeks to come.

While Doxa continues to respond in its little corner of the world, I also recognize there are many other crises that fill your time. I sincerely thank you for permitting the people of Tijuana, Doxa, and its partners to occupy a little space in your mind and heart.

With gratitude and grace,
Alex Knopes
Executive Director, Doxa